Who ever thinks as the grocery store as relaxing? Well, today...I did. I went to the grocery store by myself, for the first time in months. I had no responsibilities other then getting the groceries. It was the first time in a long time that I was not only alone at the grocery store, but ALONE!
My schedule is one of jammed packed responsibilities. Every waking moment of the day I am either working, or taking care of my children. I do not schedule enough time with my spouse, with friends, or for myself.
I quite enjoyed myself today walking in slow motion up and down each aisle. I didn't even bring a list. I didn't have to herd children in my hot mama mini van. I didn't have to threaten anyone to sit down so I could buckle them. I didn't have to break up any fights. I didn't have to monitor what was being thrown in my cart. I didn't have to correct 2,342 times to stop touching things. I didn't do anything but shop for my groceries.
It was a perfect date with myself!
In addition to being blissfully alone, it struck me how calm my mind was during my field trip. On my drive home I reflected on why my thoughts were so quiet. I think it was because I was focused on ONE THING. Not only am I almost never alone, but I am almost never only doing one thing.
My field trip left me feeling like I want to work on two areas of my life right now:
1) Scheduling more dates with myself (even if it is to the grocery store).
I don't have much flexibility with time, but I can ask for what I need. Perhaps it is a walk alone with my dog or a 10 minutes to water the garden. Whatever it is, it will be with just me...and my thoughts.
2) Stop multi-tasking!
This one has always been hard for me. Since becoming a mother, I never have enough hands, enough time in the day or can ever get it all done. So why try? I am going to start fully focusing on the moment...whatever that may be.
What about you? When is the last time you were on a date with yourself or had a quiet mind?
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I really enjoyed this blog entry, Heather - what a novel concept! (I'm so glad that you had some "me" time, even if it was just in the grocery store.)
ReplyDeleteThank you for reading! We moms find peace in the most peculiar places!
ReplyDeleteHi Heather,
ReplyDeleteMy Fiance' and I committed to vegetarian about 6 weeks ago, and I could use your advice on what to actually buy at the grocery store to keep meals balanced (particularly protein). I luckily have the luxury of going to grocery stores alone, but I have been thinking about how to be Veggie with my future family and how to have a healthy pregnancy when that time comes. Maybe a future blog post, or even an email sometime! love the site, btw!